Although still in the early stages, a plan is in place to address the capacitating of mine workers, the council told the Select Committee on Land Reform, Environment, Mineral Resources and Energy at a briefing on Covid-19-related safety regulations at mines, and on the Department of Mineral Resources' response to non-compliance by mines.
The council said in terms of the Mine Safety Act, 161 section 54 instructions (meaning part of the mine or the entire mine has been stopped from operating), including section 55 instructions (which are lesser transgressions) have been issued to mining companies.
The committee also expressed concern regarding the safety of women in mining and questioned how this issue is being addressed. The council reported that conducive personal protective equipment is being provided, and an advisory committee has been established to deal with issues affecting women, including, among others, sexual harassment. The advisory committee will advise the Mine Health and Safety Council, which will then advise the minister.
Committee Chairperson Tebogo Modise called on the department to have female representation at top management, "as presenters before the committee is dominated by males".
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